Bathing a newborn baby is one of the most strenuous tasks for new parents. That’s the reason why most parents end up taking professional help for bathing their babies in the initial period.

It is not uncommon for new parents to worry and fear about harming the delicate skin and body of their newborn. There’s also confusion about the kind of supplies to use for bathing the baby.

But you don’t have to worry about it anymore, because we’re here to help.

 Just follow these simple tips to make the bath time fun and easy for you and your baby.

1. Make Use of a Sponge

If your newborn baby’s umbilical cord is still attached, it is best to use a sponge to clean their body. But make sure to give a sponge bath to your newborn everyday because for the initial few weeks, it is important to thoroughly clean them up.

Use a soft sponge, dip it in warm water and gently use it to clean your baby. Don’t forget to clean the little folds of skin at neck, arm and elbow joints, and behind the ear. You can avoid using soap for the first few days and use gentle biodegradable baby wipes to clean their intimate areas.

2. Use Tear-Free Soap

A newborn’s skin is extremely delicate, so the most important tip for bathing your baby is to use a very mild, tear-free soap. This will ensure your baby enjoys his or her bath time instead of dreading it. The soap and shampoo must be made out of natural ingredients so that they are safe for your little one.

3. Massage

 Lightly massage your baby before bathing them. A gentle massage will help your baby relax and get prepared for bath time. Massaging also increases blood circulation and helps your child get a sound and peaceful sleep.

4. Timing is Very Important

Pick a time when you want your baby to be asleep and make that the bath time. Most parents prefer giving a bath during the evenings as warm water can help babies sleep better.

Avoid bathing immediately after feeding as the baby can spit up, but it is safe to bathe your child an hour after feeding. Also make sure your baby is not hungry before bathing because that will affect the sleep schedule.

5. Wash your Baby’s Scalp at Last

Washing your baby’s head at last reduces their chance of catching a cold. It is better to wash their body first and then wash their head, and immediately take them out of the bathroom so that their little head is not wet for long. Make sure to cover your child’s head with a towel after washing it.

6. Keep All the Supplies Ready

Before undressing your baby for a bath, make sure all the baby care products are ready. Soap should be handy, a towel should be nearby and water should be at the right temperature – not too hot, not too cold. Never leave the baby unattended to find the soap or towel.

7. A Bath Mat is a Must 

A bath mat is your best friend when it comes to washing up your little one. It will make sure that your baby doesn’t slip in the tub due to soap and water. If you cannot find a bath mat you can also place a towel in the tub to add grip and comfort.

8. You will Need a Helping Hand

Bathing a newborn baby is a difficult task especially if it is your first child. Make sure you have a helping hand since your baby has no control over his or her neck.

Have someone beside you, if you need to step out of the bathroom to get the towel or biodegradable baby wipes, you won’t be leaving your baby unattended. A helping hand can also soothe the baby if he or she gets scared while bathing.

9. Keep a Check on the Temperature

Some people believe hot water is ideal to bathe a newborn. This simply isn’t true. If the water is too hot it will rip the moisture off your child’s skin making it dry and prone to rashes. Hot water can also make the baby uncomfortable and they may start hating the bath time routine.

Make sure to use lukewarm water to bathe your little one. Always check the temperature using a baby bath thermometer. It should read 90 degrees F or below. In case you don’t have a thermometer check by dipping your elbow in the water before placing your baby in the tub.

10. Do not Panic

New mothers tend to panic a lot if their child cries during bath time. Frankly, not all kids enjoy their bath time. So there are high chances your baby might shed some tears during the initial few months. It is completely normal for babies to cry when they come in contact with water, so new mommies should not panic about it at all.

Conclusion

These are a few simple tips to make your child’s bathing experience better. Every child is different so act accordingly. To give your baby the best of the best, always buy baby care products made with natural ingredients. They are less chemically loaded and gentle on your baby’s sensitive skin.

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